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BWV
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out to what distance in our light cone can we exclude the existence of an alien civilization broadcasting EM signals at about our current levels?
They could, but that's not what you asked. You asked, to what distance could we "positively exclude" the possibility of aliens transmitting like we are. We're not continuously listening in every direction, at every frequency at once and depending on the type of signal and strength, we would miss a lot. So I'd say that f someone were transmitting something like what we transmit, from 12 LY, we PROBABLY, would have heard it, but even that close I would not guarantee it.BWV said:So nobody knows for sure if all the SETI equipment was set up on, say, Tau Ceti (12 LY away) any signals could be heard from Earth?
The SETI light cone question is a theoretical concept in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). It asks whether other civilizations in the universe are able to detect our planet and its inhabitants through the light and radio waves that have emanated from Earth since the beginning of human civilization.
The SETI light cone question is important because it helps us understand the potential reach of our planet's signals in the vastness of the universe. It also helps us consider the possibility of other intelligent beings existing beyond our planet, and whether they have the technology to detect us.
Scientists attempt to answer the SETI light cone question through various methods, such as analyzing the likelihood of other civilizations existing in our galaxy, estimating the range of our planet's signals, and studying the technological capabilities of potential extraterrestrial civilizations.
There are several challenges in attempting to answer the SETI light cone question, including the vastness of the universe and the limitations of our technology. Additionally, the question also raises ethical considerations, such as whether we should intentionally broadcast our presence to potential extraterrestrial civilizations.
If we were able to definitively answer the SETI light cone question, it could have significant implications for our understanding of the universe and our place in it. It could also impact our approach to communicating with potential extraterrestrial civilizations and our search for other forms of intelligent life in the universe.